Spain advanced to the UEFA Women’s Euro semi-finals when Athenea del Castillo and Claudia Pina scored in a 2-0 win over Switzerland at the Wankdorf Stadium on Friday.
Switzerland repelled Spain for nearly an hour by defending disciplined and hunting for counterattacks. Spain gradually grabbed control of the encounter, controlling possession and generating chances, finally breaking through.
In the 66th minute, Aitana Bonmatí’s wizardry breached the Swiss defence. She played a rabona pass to replacement Athenea del Castillo, who beat Swiss custodian Livia Peng to make it 1-0.
Spain extended their advantage five minutes later through Claudia Pina. The forward received the ball on the edge of the box and curled a stunning shot into the top corner, leaving Peng stranded and prompting celebrations among the Spanish players and spectators.
Athenea was pleased with the result and the team’s performance, especially the crowd’s support. We are thrilled to reach the semis. The team tried hard. The mood was amazing, and perhaps it can be repeated, she remarked.
The team had multiple chances but didn’t score. We were stuck, but we won.” Spain’s Alexia Putellas missed a late penalty and Switzerland’s Noelle Maritz was sent off for a dangerous challenge in stoppage time.
